Monthly Archives for November 2011

Condor Tennant & Clancy Specials

Condor have produced these amazing one off custom bikes for their star track riders and olympic hopefuls, Andy Tennant and Ed Clancy. Claire has very kindly hooked me up with some images to share of the beautifully painted frames, with Andy opting for the stealth bomber number, and Ed riding the dream (or nightmare) inspiring ‘Scream’ by Edvard Munch! 

The lush paint-work is the handicraft of the talented Chris Grove, of Performance Race Art, who has undertaken two very diofferent design briefs and delivered truly unique bikes for top-class riders. Check out their website for the insane custom designs they produce. I have to say im a fan of the Clancy’s ‘Munch’ bike, just because its so unique and off the wall, but also its executed really well! 

Venturing North

This past weekend I had the pleasure of linking with Paul of one of my favourite cycling blogs… “still searching“. As a York inhabitant, Paul promised a great route in and around the York/Harrogate area, and goodness did he deliver. The ride was a gentle 78km affair, peppered with silent country lanes looking beautiful dressed in burnt leaves, radiating in the chilly sunshine. I haven’t had a sunstancial ride in the UK since the start of august due to being on the road with work, so this route was extra special in that it felt somewhat of a homecoming for me. I tested myself a little on the climbs, each time having chris dish out some punishment on the primes. 

The cafe stops were incredible, Home Farm was an absolute treat, and not to forget arriving at the stunning bridge in Knaresborough ready for a caffeine hit.

Chris, Julia and Paul provided some great company, showing me what northern road cycling (and a little bit of cross thinking back to those bridleways) has to offer. It was the kind of ride that I had in mind when getting the Acciaio – those long leisurely days exploring in the saddle, with good banter amongst mates and long winding deserted (wind-free) roads!

  I would thoroughly recommend trying out the route on a nice clear day, the scenery was breathtaking. York is pretty accessible from Kings Cross via East Coast trains (remember to book a bike space on their website). Feel free to download the course data from the garmin information below, pop in some course points and head off into this lovely lush northern hinterland.

The Japanese ‘Crunky Popjoy’ sweets did not fare too well at the cafe stop
Sunshine & deserted lanes made for some great miles
 Paul & his awesome flouro booties
(L-R) Julia, Chris & Paul lead the way home as the sun sets